Alpha-galactosidase is a glycoside hydrolaseenzyme that hydrolyses the terminal alpha-galactosyl moieties from glycolipids and glycoproteins. It is encoded by the GLA gene.[3] Two recombinant forms of alpha-galactosidase are called agalsidase alfa (INN) and agalsidase beta (INN).

Contents

This enzyme is a homodimeric glycoprotein that hydrolyses the terminal alpha-galactosyl moieties from glycolipids and glycoproteins. It predominantly hydrolyzes ceramide trihexoside, and it can catalyze the hydrolysis of melibiose into galactose and glucose.

Two enzyme replacement therapies are available to functionally compensate for alpha-galactosidase deficiency. Agalsidase alpha and beta are both recombinant forms of the human α-galactosidase A enzyme and both have the same amino acid sequence as the native enzyme. Agalsidase alpha and beta differ in the structures of their oligosaccharide side chains.[5]

The pharmaceutical company Shire manufactures agalsidase alfa (INN) under the trade nameReplagal as a treatment for Fabry's disease,[6] and was granted marketing approval in the EU in 2001.[7] FDA approval was applied for the United States.[8] However, in 2012, Shire withdrew their application for approval in the United States citing that the agency will require additional clinical trials before approval.[9]

The pharmaceutical company Genzyme produces synthetic agalsidase beta (INN) under the trade name Fabrazyme for treatment of Fabry's disease. In 2009, contamination at Genzyme's Allston, Massachusetts plant caused a worldwide shortage of Fabrazyme, and supplies were rationed to patients at one-third the recommended dose. Some patients have petitioned to break the company's patent on the drug under the "march-in" provisions of the Bayh–Dole Act.[8]

Alpha-galactosidase is an active ingredient in Beano, Suntaqzyme, Bean-zyme, and Gas-zyme 3x, Bloateez (India) marketed as products to reduce stomach gas production after eating foods known to cause gas. There are dozens of generic brands containing the enzyme in the United States. It is optimally active at 55 degrees C, after which its half-life is 120 minutes.[10]